How to Dress for Cheerleading Tryouts

Dress to impress for your tryouts.

Skill is important, but even if you can tumble like Marilou Retton, you won’t make the squad if you don’t look and act like a spirit leader . Follow these guidelines for a great impression during your tryout routines!

Wardrobe: School colors

Shirt: T-Shirt that is medium tight fitting. No baggy t shirts. Tuck your shirt into your shorts. You can wear a tank top but make sure your bra doesn’t show through. layered tank tops always look cute. Make sure your “girls”aren’t going to pop out though. (See- under garments)

Shorts: Soffee and Varsity make the types of cotton shorts you want. Try them on to ensure a flattering fit.

Socks: The no-show sock style is great if they are newer and won’t slide down your heel. Otherwise, opt for crew socks. Bright white socks only, No colors.

Undergarments: A great sports bra is totally, without-a-doubt necessary! Buy one if you must. You will use it for every practice and every game. If you’re girls are bouncing, you will distract the judges, appear unkempt and not serious about your athletic abilities. Yes, your “jiggly girls” say all of that.

No-rinding, cotton underwear will be your best friend! Anything other will cause chafing, infections etc… because you will be very active during the tryout process and when you make the squad. No thongs, trust me.

Hair: Up in a pony tail (elastic, no scrunchies) , use hairspray and clips. The headbands roll out and are too “cross-country”. Also, a powerful and spirited touch is ribbon tied in a bow around your pony tail. In a school color of course! The 3 inch wide ribbon always looks great. (Avoid satin ribbon unless your school color is Silver or Gold)

Makeup: Clean, and minimal.

Personality: Smile! and never forget to display a hardworking, congenial and spirited attitude during tryouts. Let the judges and coaches see you will be a great person to add to their cheerleading squad!

(Please do not ever wear your P.E. uniform to any part of the tryouts unless everyone is required to wear them)

My recent article “A Cheer For Your Tryout Routine” offers a tried and true cheer that you can modify for your tryout routine, if needed.

Good luck! And don’t forget to Smile! Smile! Smile with energy!